> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://digitalgarden.batamladen.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://digitalgarden.batamladen.com/notes/security-concepts/network-security/virtual-private-networks-vpns.md).

# Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

## What is a VPN?

A VPN, which stands for virtual private network, establishes a digital connection between your computer and a remote server owned by a VPN provider, creating a point-to-point tunnel that encrypts your personal data, masks your IP address, and lets you sidestep website blocks and firewalls on the internet. This ensures that your online experiences are private, protected, and more secure.

## How does a VPN work?

A VPN hides your IP address by letting the network redirect it through a specially configured remote server run by a VPN host. This means that if you surf online with a VPN, the VPN server becomes the source of your data. This means your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and other third parties cannot see which websites you visit or what data you send and receive online. A VPN works like a filter that turns all your data into "gibberish". Even if someone were to get their hands on your data, it would be useless.

<figure><img src="/files/qMHASBt1jTHQT27qzNin" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


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